Organizations representing the interests of New Jersey's seafood lovers, including the Garden State Seafood Association and the New Jersey Restaurant Association, are coming together to oppose legislation which they say would strip people who don't fish of their right to enjoy ocean-fresh New Jersey lobsters, sea bass, blackfish and other species.

On Thursday, the State Senate's Environment Committee will consider legislation that these groups warn would deny consumers their right to enjoy fresh seafood harvested from New Jersey's artificial reefs. The legislation, sponsored by State Senator Sean Kean (R - Monmouth), would effectively ban commercial fishing over the State's artificial reefs, and direct the State to push to expand the ban beyond New Jersey waters. The legislation comes in response to complaints by some recreational fishermen that their lines occasionally get tangled in commercial boats' gear. read more